"It's a huge jump, it's something which the churches have really got to take note of in terms of how they operate. "

Father Dillon says the recent sex abuse scandals have contributed to the Catholic church losing it's credibility.

"I believe this is absolutely central to all of this and I don't think in large degree the church at it's highest level has come to grips with that."

Father Dillon says issues surrounding gay marriage and female priests play a factor towards people losing their faith.

"They are all major challenges to the Catholic church in terms of its whole attitude, not only to sexuality and its practice, but just the way in which people look at the institution of the church and see it as any sort of a teaching authority."

Father Dillon says the church must redeem itself in order to restore faith in society.

"Redemption is needed that's seeking the forgiveness of those of who have been offended against, and to do that in the most practical, humble and upfront way."